The Last of OTB at 105 Delancey?
This might be the last we see of Off Track Betting at 105 Delancey, between Ludlow and Essex Streets, so break out the cameras. Barring any miracle rescue in the eleventh hour, the state-owned OTB will die on Sunday, and with it, another gritty vestige of city history. Going out of business seems pretty likely this time, as the State Legislature adjourned before reaching any type of bailout arrangement.
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Many feel this is the last act for the cash-strapped gaming corporation, including Governor Paterson, who declared the operation all but finished. On John Gambling’s (fitting name!) WOR radio show, he said:
“We made our last best offer, which was an offer that did not involve taxpayer money…I guess competitive interests or somebody didn’t like the plan, so the Legislature went home and didn’t pass it, so they [OTB] are scheduled to expire on Sunday.”
At stake in the decision is the livelihood of 1,500 employees; and the loss of more neighborhood flavor.
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